South Sudan Triumphs Over Rwanda 3-2 in CHAN 2024 Qualifier First Leg

South Sudan defeated Rwanda 3-2 in the first leg of the 2024 Africa Nations Championship (CHAN) qualifiers for locally-based players, held on Sunday, December 22, 2024, at the Juba Stadium in South Sudan.

The hosts started the match with intensity, dominating early possession and creating pressure on the Rwandan defense. In the 13th minute, a long ball from South Sudan caught the Rwandan defense off guard. Nsabimana Aimable attempted to head the ball back to his goalkeeper, but it sailed over him and into the net for an unfortunate own goal, giving South Sudan a 1-0 lead.

The momentum stayed with the home side as they pressed forward. In the 20th minute, a well-placed corner kick fell to Malian Mandela, who drilled a powerful shot from outside the box, doubling South Sudan’s lead to 2-0.

Despite the early setbacks, Rwanda began to settle into the game, creating several promising attacking opportunities. However, they struggled to convert their chances in the final third. As the half drew to a close, Rwanda ramped up the pressure, pushing for a goal, but South Sudan’s defense held firm.

The first half ended with the hosts in a commanding 2-0 position.

Rwanda came out with renewed vigor in the second half, and just three minutes after the break, they pulled a goal back. Mugisha Gilbert provided a perfect assist to Muhire Kevin, who surged into the box and slotted home Rwanda’s first goal, making it 2-1 in the 48th minute.

However, South Sudan quickly responded. In the 53rd minute, Benjamin Laku delivered a superb cross into the box, where Ebon Malish Wajo met it with a header that found the back of the net, restoring South Sudan’s two-goal advantage at 3-1.

Rwanda wasn’t done yet, though. They continued to fight back, dominating possession and creating several chances. In the 69th minute, Kanamugire Roger made a brilliant pass to Mugisha Didier, who sprinted down the field and calmly finished to bring Rwanda within one goal at 3-2.

With just over 20 minutes left to play, Rwanda threw everything forward in search of an equalizer. Despite relentless pressure and several near-misses from Muhire, Mugisha, and Niyomugabo Claude, they couldn’t find the back of the net.

The match ended 3-2 in favor of South Sudan, who now take a slender lead into the second leg. Rwanda, with a strong history in regional competitions, will be determined to challenge for a spot in the next round. The return leg is expected to be an exciting match as both teams fight for the next stage of the qualifiers.

The two teams will meet again next Sunday, December 28, 2024, at 18:00 at Amahoro Stadium in Kigali for the decisive return fixture.